Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden - Image 1
1 / 10

Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden

4.3
·397 reviews·Beppu, Japan

Swimwear-friendly heated pools with stunning city views, magical light shows, and unique therapeutic treatments.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon to evening

Sunset views & light shows

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden - Image 1

Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden

Best Time

Late afternoon to evening

Sunset views & light shows

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Swimwear-friendly heated pools with stunning city views, magical light shows, and unique therapeutic treatments.

4.3
(397 reviews)

"You can enjoy the Aqua Garden even in winter. There are warm pool and onsen with superb city view!"

Vertical photo
TIP

swimwear required! :bikini:

Unlike traditional onsens, Aqua Garden allows swimwear, making it a great option for everyone .

Cover tattoos :scissors:

If you have tattoos, be prepared to cover them as some areas may have restrictions .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Aqua Garden's Infinity Pools

Aqua Garden's Infinity Pools

Outdoor pools

Swimwear-friendly heated pools with breathtaking panoramic views of Beppu city.

Aurora Show

Aurora Show

Aqua Garden

An immersive light show where colorful aurora-like lights dance around you in the warm pools.

Fountain Show

Fountain Show

Aqua Garden

Watch water dance to music in a captivating display, a highlight for many visitors.

Salt Float & Mud Treatments

Salt Float & Mud Treatments

Indoor facilities

Relax and rejuvenate with unique therapeutic treatments like salt floats and mud baths.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Onsen Culture

Beppu is the hot spring capital of Japan, and Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden is a must-visit. While many onsens require nudity, the Aqua Garden offers a unique experience where you can wear swimwear, making it accessible for all. Be aware of tattoo policies, as some areas may require them to be covered.Reddit

Timing is Key for Views

To fully appreciate the stunning city views and the magical light and fountain shows, plan your visit for late afternoon or early evening. This allows you to experience the transition from daylight to sunset and the illuminated spectacle.Reddit

Best Times

When
Late afternoon to evening
Why
Sunset views & light shows
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Destination of the Week: Oita, Japan 🇯🇵 1. Begin your journey in Beppu, the hot spring capital of Japan, easily reached from Oita Airport. Local buses and taxis make it simple to explore every onsen district. 2. Witness the otherworldly Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) - from the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku to the crimson Chinoike Jigoku and the bubbling mud pools of Oniishibozu Jigoku. These geothermal wond...
@skyscanner
84.1K likes • 3.2M views

swimwear required! :bikini:

Unlike traditional onsens, Aqua Garden allows swimwear, making it a great option for everyone.Reddit

Cover tattoos :scissors:

If you have tattoos, be prepared to cover them as some areas may have restrictions.Reddit

Who wants to see the hot spring capital of the world? ♨️ Beppu is the most unique city we have EVER visited and you MUST see this place at least once! 📍Beppu Seven Hells 📍Hyotan Onsen (world’s first Michelin onsen) 📍Jigokumushikobo Kannawa (🔥 steamed cuisine) 📍Okamotoya (Onsen steamed pudding restaurant) #beppu #kyushu #japan #travelgoals #japantrip #japan🇯🇵 #travelling
@hangrybynature
25.4K likes • 351.5K views
Trả lời @thinhbg_95 別府八湯温泉まつり (Beppu Onsen Festival) cre: 藤澤佑樹 (yukifujisawa2) #別府八湯温泉まつり #別府温泉まつり #別府温泉 #温泉県おおいた♨️ #別府 #マッチョ #筋肉 #お神輿 #j_boys #japanboy #japanese #trainhatban
@j_boys_tt
20.6K likes • 160.8K views

Towels provided :beach_with_umbrella:

Entrance fee usually includes a set of towels, so no need to bring your own.Reddit

Book in advance :calendar:

Especially during peak seasons, booking your tickets ahead of time is recommended.

I visited the ONLY Michelin Three Star Hot Spring in Japan♨️ Tag a friend you would want to visit here with! #japan #japanese #onsen #beppu
@jesseogn
17.2K likes • 303.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

swimwear required! :bikini:

Unlike traditional onsens, Aqua Garden allows swimwear, making it a great option for everyone.Reddit

Cover tattoos :scissors:

If you have tattoos, be prepared to cover them as some areas may have restrictions.Reddit

Towels provided :beach_with_umbrella:

Entrance fee usually includes a set of towels, so no need to bring your own.Reddit

Book in advance :calendar:

Especially during peak seasons, booking your tickets ahead of time is recommended.

Explore all facilities :mag_right:

Don't miss the indoor onsens and unique treatments beyond the main pool area.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(397 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden for its stunning city views from the heated outdoor pools and the magical light and fountain shows. The swimwear-friendly policy is a significant plus, making it accessible for families and those hesitant about traditional onsens. Some find it more geared towards families than couples, and tattoo policies can be a minor inconvenience.

"Love the heated outdoor swimming pool with great view of the city. You can see sunset though. It's in the opposite direction. The onsens on the 2nd floor can be used together. Costs 2,000 yen per person."

Shirley Odelia

"You can enjoy the Aqua Garden even in winter. There are warm pool and onsen with superb city view!"

Ahan Tegi

"Beautiful views of Beppu and nice facilities. More for families than couples traveling together but really enjoyed the salt float and salt scrub plus was fun to be together for a bit before going into the gender onsen."

Kathryn Cervantes

What People Like

Spectacular city views
Unique light shows
Swimwear-friendly pools

What People Dislike

Tattoo restrictions
Can feel family-oriented

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden is located within the Suginoi Hotel complex. From Beppu Station, you can take a local bus (e.g., lines 2, 5, or 7) towards the hotel, or a taxi. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes.TikTok

Yes, visitors not staying at the Suginoi Hotel can still access the Aqua Garden and Tanayu facilities by purchasing a day pass. This allows you to enjoy the pools and shows even if you're based elsewhere in Beppu.Reddit

Beppu is known as the 'hot spring capital,' and exploring its various onsen districts is easy. Local buses are frequent and cover most areas. Taxis are also readily available. For a scenic journey, consider the Yufuin no Mori train if traveling between Yufuin and Beppu.TikTok

Yes, the Japan Rail Pass can be used for travel on JR Kyushu trains to Beppu Station, making it a convenient option for those exploring Kyushu.TikTok

Bus lines 2, 5, and 7 from Beppu Station are commonly used to reach the Suginoi Hotel area, where Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden is located. It's always a good idea to check the latest bus schedules upon arrival.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for the Aqua Garden is typically around 2,000 yen per person. This often includes a set of towels, so you don't need to bring your own.Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays, to ensure entry and avoid long queues.Reddit

The Aqua Garden is generally open from morning until late evening, often until 10 PM. However, hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Suginoi Hotel website for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, like many Japanese onsens, Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden may have policies regarding tattoos. Small tattoos might need to be covered with waterproof bandages.Reddit

Yes, the Aqua Garden is a family-friendly facility. Children are welcome, and there are often specific pricing tiers for younger visitors.Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

The main draw is the Aqua Garden, featuring heated outdoor pools with stunning city views, a unique aurora light show, and a captivating fountain show set to music.Reddit

Yes, unlike traditional Japanese onsens, the Aqua Garden is designed for swimwear. This allows visitors to enjoy the pools together regardless of gender.Reddit

Beyond the outdoor pools, you can find indoor onsens, private shower areas, jacuzzis, and unique therapeutic treatments like salt floats and mud baths.Reddit

Absolutely. The swimwear-friendly environment, the engaging light and fountain shows, and the variety of pools make it a great experience for families with children.Reddit

The Aurora Show is an immersive experience where colorful, aurora-like lights are projected around the pools, creating a magical and otherworldly atmosphere as you relax in the warm water.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the Aqua Garden itself focuses on the bathing experience, the Suginoi Hotel complex offers various dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, catering to different tastes.

Generally, food and drinks are not permitted within the immediate pool areas for hygiene reasons. There are usually designated areas or nearby cafes within the hotel where you can enjoy refreshments.

Beppu is famous for 'Jigoku Mushi' (hell steaming), where food is cooked using the natural steam from hot springs. While not directly at Aqua Garden, you can find restaurants offering this unique culinary experience in the Kannawa district.TikTok

The Suginoi Hotel typically offers a range of Japanese and international cuisine, often with buffet-style dining options that are popular with guests.

Yes, exploring the surrounding areas of Beppu will allow you to sample local delicacies. Beppu is known for its fresh seafood and regional Kyushu dishes.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in the Aqua Garden area, especially in the outdoor pools, to capture the views and shows. However, always be mindful of other guests' privacy and check for any specific signage regarding photo restrictions in certain areas.

The infinity pools overlooking Beppu city offer stunning panoramic shots, especially during sunset or when the light shows are active. The areas around the fountain show also provide dynamic photo opportunities.

Photography is typically prohibited in the indoor onsen and changing room areas for privacy reasons. Please respect these rules and refrain from taking pictures in these private spaces.

Late afternoon into the evening is ideal. You can capture the golden hour light during sunset, followed by the magical illumination of the fountain and aurora shows.Reddit

While Suginoi Tanayu is about relaxation, the 'Jigoku Meguri' (Hell Tour) in Beppu offers visually striking, natural hot spring vents that are very photogenic, such as the vibrant blue Umi Jigoku.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Suginoi Tanayu's Aqua Garden is an excellent choice for families. The swimwear-friendly pools mean everyone can join in the fun without the need for nudity, which can be more comfortable for children and parents alike.Reddit The Fountain Show and Aurora Show are particularly captivating for younger visitors, offering a magical visual spectacle. The warm waters are also perfect for kids to splash around in safely. Remember to check for any height or age restrictions for specific facilities within the hotel complex.

couples

While the Aqua Garden is family-friendly, it also offers a romantic setting for couples. Enjoy the panoramic city views from the infinity pools, especially during sunset, for a truly memorable experience. The salt float and mud treatments can be a fun and relaxing activity to share. For a more private experience, inquire about private bathing options within the hotel's onsen facilities.Reddit

Budget Travelers

The Aqua Garden offers a relatively affordable way to experience Beppu's famous hot springs, especially compared to some of the more exclusive traditional onsens. The entrance fee of around 2,000 yen includes towels, saving you extra costs.Reddit While the Suginoi Hotel itself can be pricey, visiting the Aqua Garden as a day guest is a cost-effective way to enjoy the facilities. Look for deals or consider visiting during off-peak times to potentially find better rates.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Beppu Onsen Experience

Beppu, often hailed as the 'hot spring capital of the world,' boasts an incredible density of geothermal activity, with eight distinct onsen districts.TikTok While traditional onsens require nudity and follow strict etiquette, places like Suginoi Tanayu's Aqua Garden offer a modern twist. Here, visitors can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of hot springs while wearing swimwear, making it a more accessible experience for international travelers and families.Reddit This approach allows everyone to partake in the rejuvenating ritual of soaking in mineral-rich waters while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

Beyond the general onsen experience, Beppu is renowned for its unique 'Jigoku Meguri' or 'Hell Tour,' where visitors explore natural hot spring 'jigoku' (hells) known for their dramatic colors and boiling waters.TikTok Some of these sites, like the steaming mud pots or the vibrant blue Umi Jigoku, offer a stark contrast to the serene relaxation found at places like Suginoi Tanayu. For those seeking the ultimate onsen indulgence, Hyotan Onsen is noted as the only Michelin three-star onsen in Japan, offering a premium experience.TikTok+1

When visiting Beppu's onsen facilities, it's important to be aware of local customs and rules. Many traditional onsens have strict policies against visible tattoos, often requiring them to be covered.Reddit While the Aqua Garden is more lenient, it's always wise to check specific venue guidelines. The sheer variety of onsen experiences in Beppu, from the communal and accessible Aqua Garden to the more traditional and exclusive options, ensures there's something for every type of traveler looking to experience Japan's famed hot springs.

Capturing the Magic: Photography at Aqua Garden

Suginoi Tanayu's Aqua Garden provides a stunning backdrop for photography, especially during the late afternoon and evening. The infinity pools offer breathtaking panoramic views of Beppu city, which become even more spectacular as the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle.Reddit This transition period is perfect for capturing both the natural beauty of the landscape and the urban sprawl.

The real photographic magic, however, happens after dark. The Aurora Show transforms the pools into an ethereal wonderland, with colorful lights dancing around and through the water. This creates unique and vibrant photo opportunities that are unlike any other. Similarly, the Fountain Show, where water jets move in sync with music, provides dynamic and visually engaging scenes. Capturing the movement and light of these shows requires a bit of patience, but the results can be incredibly rewarding.Reddit

When photographing at Aqua Garden, remember to be respectful of other visitors. While photography is generally permitted in the outdoor pool areas, avoid intrusive shots and always be mindful of privacy. The indoor onsen areas are strictly off-limits for photography. For the best shots, consider using a tripod if possible to stabilize your camera during the light shows, and experiment with different angles to capture the full immersive experience of the aurora and fountain displays.

Beyond the Pools: Exploring Beppu's Unique Attractions

While Suginoi Tanayu & Aqua Garden is a highlight, Beppu offers a wealth of other unique attractions that showcase its geothermal wonders. The Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) is a must-do, featuring seven distinct natural hot springs, each with its own dramatic characteristics. From the steaming, mud-filled ponds of Chinoike Jigoku to the vibrant blue waters of Umi Jigoku, these sites offer a glimpse into the raw power of the earth.TikTok+1

For a taste of local culture and cuisine, explore the Kannawa district, known for its traditional onsen inns and Jigoku Mushi (hell steaming) restaurants. Here, you can witness food being cooked using the natural steam from hot springs, a unique culinary experience that's both traditional and delicious.TikTok You can also find unique onsen-themed treats, like steamed pudding.TikTok

Transportation within Beppu is relatively easy, with a good bus network connecting the various attractions. For a more scenic journey, consider the Yufuin no Mori train, a charming limited express service that runs between Yufuin and Beppu, offering panoramic views of the Kyushu countryside.TikTok This train itself is an experience, often featuring a retro design and comfortable seating, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

You may also like